If you’re thinking of a family cruise, there’s nothing better than a Disney one! But, planning a Disney Cruise can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never sailed! From kids ‘clubs to private islands to pirate nights and fireworks, here are the answers to some of the top questions I get when planning a Disney Cruise Vacation!
What’s included?
Disney Cruises can be more expensive than some of the other cruise lines. But they also offer more value than most of the other cruise lines. You can board a Disney Cruise, spend no extra money, and still have a wonderful time!
Here’s what’s included:
• All meals
• Soft drinks served at meals and at each ship’s beverage station
• Snacks and ice cream throughout the ship
• Disney Character Meet & Greets
• Entertainment including live Broadway-style productions at the Walt Disney Theatre as well as Disney movie classics and current first-run films at the Buena Vista Theatre
• Kids clubs (for ages 3 and up)
• Teen clubs
• Family game lounge
• Adult lounges
But there are a few things you may want to splurge on too including:
• Port Adventures
• Spa and salon services
• Babysitting in the ship’s nurseries (for children under age 3)
• Onboard photography service (make sure to pre-purchase for package discounts)
• Alcoholic beverages (Disney offers a daily discounted drink of the day along with wine and beer packages to help you save)
• Adults-only dining venues, Palo (aboard all ships) and Remy (aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish).
How are the Disney Cruise ships different? How do I know which to pick?
Disney currently has FIVE ships to pick from (with more on the way). Sometimes the itinerary will dictate the ship (for instance, if you are traveling to Europe or Alaska, you’ll be on one of the Disney Magic or the Wonder). If you’re looking for shorter Bahamian cruises, you’ll have the option of the Dream or the NEW Disney Wish. Longer Caribbean itineraries will most likely be on the Disney Fantasy.
The Disney Wish, with some amazing enhancements and features like themed dinners, a slide going into the kids’ clubs, and the brand new AquaMouse, coaster at sea. If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate ship, the Disney Wonder and Magic are great options. But don’t worry if you can’t decide what ship is best for your family, I’m always here to help!
Are the staterooms large enough?
The staterooms on a Disney cruise ship are larger than on most other cruise lines. That help when you’ve got your children with you and lots of luggage to store. Another plus is the split bathrooms. There is one side with the shower (and even a tub to bathe small children, and the other side has the sink area. Disney cruise ships also have connecting staterooms for larger families.
Do I need a passport?
Technically the answer is no. For most close-looped cruises (starting and ending at the same US port) you can use just your birth certificate. However, it is STRONGLY suggested that you do. If something happens, such as an emergency, you are going to need a passport (and travel insurance) for a safe and timely return to the U.S. Without a passport you can be stranded in another country!
What’s so special about a Disney Cruise vacation vs. other cruise lines?
Each cruise line has its own place on what makes it special. But Disney Cruise offers something for the entire family along with the exceptional service that Disney is known for. I’ve been on several Disney cruises and continue to sail with them again because of the amazing food, adult-only areas, Broadway-style shows, kids’ clubs, and most of all, the Disney Cast Members. They go above and beyond to make each sailing magical! From the bar staff to the kids’ club counselors to dining room servers that travel to the different restaurants with you each night. They help create family memories that last a lifetime.
Dreaming of your next vacation to Disney or beyond? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure.
